The National Chief Imam, Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, has announced that the first sighting of the moon for the month of Shawwal would take place on Saturday, March 29.
According to him, if the new moon is sighted on this day, Sunday, March 30, 2025, will mark the beginning of Shawwal and the day to celebrate Eid-al-Fitr in Ghana.
A statement issued and signed by The National Executive Secretary, Alhaji Awaisu Salisu Bio, and copied by The Ghanaian Times, emphasised that this year’s Eid-ul-Fitr celebration is particularly significant, as the government has declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, 2025, as public holidays to mark the occasion.
“This is the first time Muslims in Ghana have been granted a two-day holiday for the celebration,” the statements said.
The National Chief Imam, stressed that they would be relying on local sightings to declare the start of the month of Shawwal, rather than depending on observations from other countries.
“The sighting should be based solely on sightings within Ghana, adhering to the country’s principle,” he said.
Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu has directed all Regional Chief Imams to ensure compliance with this directive.
Eid-al-Fitr marks the end of the Islamic month of fasting and prayer, called Ramadan.
It is a time of celebration, visitation of family and friends, feasting, mini-vacations, and giving food or money to the poor while many in Ghana will attend communal prayer sessions at a local mosque.
The Eid-al-Fitr celebration is expected to be a joyous occasion, with Muslims across Ghana coming together to mark the end of Ramadan.
With the government’s declaration of a two-day holiday, Muslims in Ghana will have ample opportunity to celebrate with family and friends.
BY TIMES REPORTER
